Simple Water Change Question

[martinglover]

Sorry for probably asking a simple question, but how long should I let my buckets of tap water stand before putting it in my tank when doing a water change. Is a couple of hours enough, or does it have to be 24 hours. Or can it be done more or less straight away?

As for additives to the water going in, will just dechlorinator suffice?

I know these are probably basic questions, but I want to be sure.

Thanks.

 

[Mo1959]

Hi Martin. As long as you are adding your dechlorinator to the bucket when you are filling it. A quick swish to make sure it is mixed and you can put it straight in. No need to leave it to stand.

 

[roadmaster]

Sorry for probably asking a simple question, but how long should I let my buckets of tap water stand before putting it in my tank when doing a water change. Is a couple of hours enough, or does it have to be 24 hours. Or can it be done more or less straight away?

As for additives to the water going in, will just dechlorinator suffice?

I know these are probably basic questions, but I want to be sure.

Thanks.

If tapwater contains only chlorine, rather than chloramines, then letting the water set for 24 hours would render it safe for use without dechlorinator. If you use dechlorinator,,it would be safe immediaiely.
If tapwater contains chloramines, (ammonia + chlorine) then adding a water conditioner such as PRIME will make it safe immediately and no need to let it set out.
Some I believe,,, perform small water changes without using a dechlorinator but it is not something I choose to do.
I like PRIME because it detoxifies ammonia,chlorine,chloramines,and heavy meatls that may be present. Also takes nearly three times as much conditioner of most other brands to produce same effect that half the amount of PRIME does.

I receive no compensation for plugging the Seachem product, just use it cause it's a good value for my dollar.

 

[martinglover]

Cheers guys. I'll take these opinions on board. Thanks.

 

[OldMan47]

I can tell you what I do Martinglover. I add dechlorinator while I am filling my water change buckets. When the buckets are full, I expect the bucket water to be ready to use. I treat that water as if it is ready for my fish and seldom ever have any issue result from my approach.

 

[Gilli]

Buy yourself some pond dechlorinator (make sure it removes heavy metals - most do anyway) - its tons cheaper and lasts for months and months! You can buy it easily and cheaply on Ebay. Just fill your buckets with cold water - top up with some hot so its not too cold, dump all of your decholorinator in the first bucket and carry on with your refill!

 

[ulsterboy]

i hear ya roadmaster-PRIME all the way.and works out way cheaper in the long run..i just add it to the bucket when filling up,and then straight into the tank)

 

[OldMan47]

I also use Prime Ulsterboy but that was not the real question being asked.